First, no one should be forced to carry any tool with which they are either unfamiliar, unskilled, or uncomfortable. As an example, I could tell someone that the best way to get downtown would be to buy a car. Perhaps, but that person may be frightened of driving, not physically or mentally qualified to drive, or just not interested in owning a car. Fine for that person.

Second, owning and carrying a gun is not a magic formula for safety. Again, training and willingness to use the gun in appropriate situations are paramount. If you are a poor driver, stay out of the driver's seat. If you are inept with a gun, do not carry or own one.

Third, and probably most important in this situation is that not allowing guns onto your property, especially retail outlets, is detrimental to the owner's and the customers' safety. Seeing the "No Guns" sign is a signal that it is safe to rob this establishment at gunpoint or gun threat. No one in the store is armed; law abiding citizens will not have guns, only the criminals who are safe in that gun-free environment. Back to the car analogy, if no one is allowed a car, no one will be able to offer you a ride downtown.

That, m'lady